NASA awards $21.5M for Pathfinder Technology Demonstrator cubesat, a definitive contract for spaceflight
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $21,476,931 ($21.5M)
Contractor: Tyvak Nano-Satellite Systems, Inc.
Awarding Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Start Date: 2017-01-10
End Date: 2025-01-31
Contract Duration: 2,943 days
Daily Burn Rate: $7.3K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Number of Offers Received: 7
Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE
Sector: Other
Official Description: PATHFINDER TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATOR (PTD)- SPACEFLIGHT QUALIFIED 6U CUBESAT SPACECRAFT TO BE OPERATED BY NASA FOR ITS PATHFINDER TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATOR (PTD) PROJECT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS IDENTIFIED IN THE STATEMENT OF WORK.
Place of Performance
Location: IRVINE, ORANGE County, CALIFORNIA, 92618
Plain-Language Summary
National Aeronautics and Space Administration obligated $21.5 million to TYVAK NANO-SATELLITE SYSTEMS, INC. for work described as: PATHFINDER TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATOR (PTD)- SPACEFLIGHT QUALIFIED 6U CUBESAT SPACECRAFT TO BE OPERATED BY NASA FOR ITS PATHFINDER TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATOR (PTD) PROJECT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS IDENTIFIED IN THE STATEMENT OF WORK. Key points: 1. This contract supports NASA's Pathfinder Technology Demonstrator (PTD) project, aiming to test new space technologies. 2. The award is a definitive contract, indicating a commitment to a specific project timeline and scope. 3. The spacecraft will be operated by NASA, ensuring direct oversight of its technological demonstrations. 4. The project falls under the Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing sector, highlighting its advanced technological nature. 5. The contract duration is substantial, spanning over 2,450 days, suggesting a long-term technology development and testing phase.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The contract value of $21.5 million for a custom-built cubesat spacecraft appears reasonable given the complexity and specialized nature of spaceflight hardware. Benchmarking against similar NASA or DoD cubesat development contracts would provide a more precise value-for-money assessment. The firm fixed-price structure shifts risk to the contractor, which can be beneficial for cost control if well-managed.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded under full and open competition, suggesting that multiple vendors had the opportunity to bid. The presence of 7 bidders indicates a healthy level of interest and competition in this specialized market. This competitive process is expected to drive more favorable pricing and innovation.
Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayers benefit from a competitive process that likely resulted in a more cost-effective solution for developing and deploying this space technology.
Public Impact
NASA benefits through the advancement of its Pathfinder Technology Demonstrator (PTD) project, enabling the testing of novel space technologies. The project will deliver a functional 6U cubesat spacecraft designed for spaceflight operations. The geographic impact is national, with potential benefits extending to the broader U.S. space industry and research community. Workforce implications include specialized engineering, manufacturing, and operational roles within the aerospace sector.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Long contract duration could lead to scope creep or unforeseen cost increases if not meticulously managed.
- Reliance on a single definitive contract for a complex project may limit flexibility in adapting to evolving technological requirements.
- The specific performance metrics and success criteria for the technology demonstrations need clear definition to ensure project success.
Positive Signals
- Awarded through full and open competition, indicating a robust selection process.
- Firm fixed-price contract structure provides cost certainty for the government.
- Contractor, TYVAK NANO-SATELLITE SYSTEMS, INC., specializes in nano-satellite systems, suggesting relevant expertise.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing sector, a highly specialized area of the aerospace industry focused on the development and production of spacecraft and related systems. The market for cubesat development and deployment is growing, driven by reduced launch costs and increasing demand for small satellite applications in research, Earth observation, and communication. NASA's investment in the Pathfinder Technology Demonstrator (PTD) project aligns with broader trends in space exploration and technology maturation.
Small Business Impact
The data indicates this contract was awarded under full and open competition and does not specify any small business set-aside provisions. While the prime contractor is TYVAK NANO-SATELLITE SYSTEMS, INC., it is unclear from the provided data whether they are a small or large business. Subcontracting opportunities for small businesses may exist, but are not explicitly detailed in this award information.
Oversight & Accountability
The contract is managed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), which has established oversight mechanisms for its projects. As a definitive contract, it implies a defined scope and schedule, subject to regular progress reviews. Transparency is generally maintained through NASA's public contract databases and reporting. Inspector General oversight would apply to ensure the proper use of funds and adherence to contract terms.
Related Government Programs
- NASA Small Spacecraft Technology Program
- CubeSat Launch Initiative
- Technology Demonstration Missions
Risk Flags
- Long contract duration
- Firm Fixed Price contract type
- Technology Demonstration focus
Tags
nasa, spaceflight, cubesat, technology-demonstration, definitive-contract, firm-fixed-price, full-and-open-competition, guided-missile-and-space-vehicle-manufacturing, california, tyvak-nano-satellite-systems
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
National Aeronautics and Space Administration awarded $21.5 million to TYVAK NANO-SATELLITE SYSTEMS, INC.. PATHFINDER TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATOR (PTD)- SPACEFLIGHT QUALIFIED 6U CUBESAT SPACECRAFT TO BE OPERATED BY NASA FOR ITS PATHFINDER TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATOR (PTD) PROJECT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS IDENTIFIED IN THE STATEMENT OF WORK.
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is TYVAK NANO-SATELLITE SYSTEMS, INC..
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (National Aeronautics and Space Administration).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $21.5 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2017-01-10. End: 2025-01-31.
What is the specific technological innovation the Pathfinder Technology Demonstrator (PTD) project aims to test?
The provided data does not specify the exact technological innovation the Pathfinder Technology Demonstrator (PTD) project aims to test. However, the project's name suggests a focus on demonstrating novel technologies that could pave the way for future space missions. These could range from advanced propulsion systems, new sensor technologies, improved communication methods, or innovative power generation and management systems suitable for small satellite platforms. The cubesat form factor (6U) indicates a standardized, modular approach to spacecraft design, allowing for easier integration and launch. The contract's objective is to build and operate such a spacecraft for these technology demonstrations, enabling NASA to assess the viability and performance of these new capabilities in the space environment before committing to larger, more expensive missions.
How does the $21.5 million contract value compare to similar cubesat development projects by NASA or other agencies?
Benchmarking the $21.5 million contract value for the Pathfinder Technology Demonstrator (PTD) requires comparison with similar custom-designed cubesat projects, particularly those involving spaceflight qualification and operation. While specific figures for comparable projects are not provided here, the cost for a 6U cubesat with spaceflight qualification can vary significantly based on payload complexity, mission duration, and required subsystems. Projects involving advanced technology demonstrations or unique operational requirements tend to be at the higher end. Generally, cubesat development can range from tens of thousands for simple educational missions to millions for complex scientific or technology demonstration platforms. Given the 'spaceflight qualified' requirement and NASA operation, $21.5 million appears to be within a reasonable range for a sophisticated, custom-built demonstrator, though a detailed analysis would necessitate access to a broader dataset of similar contracts.
What are the primary risks associated with a long-duration definitive contract for a technology demonstrator spacecraft?
A primary risk with a long-duration definitive contract for a technology demonstrator spacecraft is the potential for technological obsolescence or the emergence of superior alternative technologies during the contract's extended period. The 'definitive' nature implies a fixed scope, which might limit the contractor's flexibility to adapt to unforeseen technical challenges or incorporate advancements discovered mid-project. Cost overruns are also a risk, especially with firm fixed-price contracts, if initial estimates do not adequately account for the complexities of space hardware development and testing. Furthermore, the long operational phase increases the probability of component failure or environmental degradation impacting the technology demonstration's success. Effective risk mitigation would involve robust initial planning, phased reviews, and clear change management processes.
What is the expected impact of this contract on the small satellite industry and technological advancement in space?
This contract is expected to have a positive impact on the small satellite industry and technological advancement in space by fostering innovation and validating new capabilities. The development of the Pathfinder Technology Demonstrator (PTD) spacecraft will likely push the boundaries of cubesat design, miniaturization, and operational efficiency. By successfully demonstrating new technologies in orbit, NASA provides crucial validation that can de-risk future adoption by both government and commercial entities. This can lead to increased investment in the small satellite sector, stimulate competition among manufacturers, and potentially lower the cost of future space missions. The insights gained from the PTD project could accelerate the deployment of advanced technologies across various applications, from scientific research to Earth observation and communication.
How does the 'Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing' classification influence the oversight and regulatory environment for this contract?
The classification under 'Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing' places this contract within a sector subject to stringent oversight and regulatory requirements due to national security and advanced technology implications. This typically involves adherence to specific manufacturing standards, quality control protocols (e.g., AS9100), and potentially export control regulations (ITAR). Government oversight is likely to be intensive, with requirements for detailed documentation, traceability of components, and rigorous testing phases. NASA's own procurement regulations and technical standards will also apply. While this contract is for a technology demonstrator and not a weapon system, the underlying manufacturing processes and materials used in space-qualified hardware often overlap with those in defense-related aerospace, necessitating a high degree of diligence and compliance.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Manufacturing › Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing › Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing
Product/Service Code: AEROSPACE CRAFT AND STRUCTURAL COMPONENTS
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE
Solicitation ID: NNA16574335R
Offers Received: 7
Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Address: 15330 BARRANCA PKWY, IRVINE, CA, 92618
Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Manufacturer of Goods, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $25,288,313
Exercised Options: $21,476,931
Current Obligation: $21,476,931
Actual Outlays: $8,357,481
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: NO
Timeline
Start Date: 2017-01-10
Current End Date: 2025-01-31
Potential End Date: 2025-01-31 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2025-05-14
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